CORONATION Street rogue Charlie Stubbs is building the foundations of a new career - as a pantomime villain.

Actor Bill Ward who plays evil builder Charlie has lined up a new role in Aladdin at Manchester's Lowry Theatre.

He will play the wicked magician Abanazer and Bill says: "Charlie has caused a lot of torment and heartbreak, but playing Abanazer will be a laugh as he thinks he's the best magician in the entire world and is bent on world domination."

Bill will leave the Street after Christmas when his character is killed by girlfriend Tracey Barlow, played by Kate Ford.

"Charlie will finally get his rightful come-uppance," says Bill, "which is why I decided to leave the show as he can't keep getting away with it."

To help with his new role, Bill called on magician Paul Daniels for a few tricks and tips.

"I wanted to learn how to make things happen without the audience expecting it," said Bill. "Paul came to visit us in rehearsals and gave us some very good pointers."